In this research, we analyze the economic sustainability through comparative cost analysis of the two contemporary residences of Lahore, Pakistan, built with contrasting materials and techniques. The first selected house is built using modern construction materials such as reinforced concrete, cement, steel, and brick; constructed in 9” and 4 ½” thick walls, and 6” RCC flat slab; with the architectural design following the western model of detached/ semi-detached family house with enclosed rooms with low ceiling height. The second selected residence is a traditional courtyard house constructed with vernacular building materials: lime mortar and brick, without any industry-produced materials; using traditional techniques of making arches, domes, and muqarnas, having thicker walls, elevated ceilings, and roofs with mud insulation. Adequate evidence exists that industry-produced building materials, such as cement, concrete, and steel are not environmentally friendly with a higher carbon footprint, whilst the use of vernacular materials and indigenous techniques is a way towards sustainable development. We also considered other economic aspects such as time constraints, labour requirements, additional resource management, etc. This assessment will lead the stakeholders including the client, designer, and builder to consider an alternative approach of using traditional materials and methods while taking into account their long-term impacts.
Comparative Cost Analysis of the Contemporary Residences
Sarah Javed Shah;
2022-01-01
Abstract
In this research, we analyze the economic sustainability through comparative cost analysis of the two contemporary residences of Lahore, Pakistan, built with contrasting materials and techniques. The first selected house is built using modern construction materials such as reinforced concrete, cement, steel, and brick; constructed in 9” and 4 ½” thick walls, and 6” RCC flat slab; with the architectural design following the western model of detached/ semi-detached family house with enclosed rooms with low ceiling height. The second selected residence is a traditional courtyard house constructed with vernacular building materials: lime mortar and brick, without any industry-produced materials; using traditional techniques of making arches, domes, and muqarnas, having thicker walls, elevated ceilings, and roofs with mud insulation. Adequate evidence exists that industry-produced building materials, such as cement, concrete, and steel are not environmentally friendly with a higher carbon footprint, whilst the use of vernacular materials and indigenous techniques is a way towards sustainable development. We also considered other economic aspects such as time constraints, labour requirements, additional resource management, etc. This assessment will lead the stakeholders including the client, designer, and builder to consider an alternative approach of using traditional materials and methods while taking into account their long-term impacts.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
